After creating a massive political storm , NCP chief Sharad Pawar has cleared his stand on the Rafale deal with a new statement . His earlier statement which he reportedly backed prime Minister Narendra Modi did not go down well with his party men. It saw senior leader and party founder Tariq Anwar and General Secretary Munaf Hakim quitting the party.

Now in a apparent damage control , while addressing a party meeting in Beed in the Marathwada region earlier in the day, Pawar said, “Some people have criticised me saying I supported him (Modi). I have not supported him. I did not (support Modi) and will never (do that)”.

Pawar in- fact claimed that the country was “looted” in the multi-billion dollar fighter jet purchase from France. He demanded that the government explain to Parliament the escalation in price of Rafale jets from Rs 650 crore during the UPA rule to Rs 1,600 crore under Modi.

The NCP leader, who is being seen as a key figure in galvanising opposition parties as a common force against the ruling BJP, rejected the reports that he had ever supported the escalation of the price of the fighter jets.

He said, “They (the government) bought the aircraft. I am saying this clearly that the government should explain to Parliament why the cost of the aircraft rose from Rs 650 crore (per plane) to Rs 1,600 crore”.

In a tweet in Marathi, Pawar said, “(Former Prime Minister) Rajiv Gandhi had faced an enquiry when allegations were raised in the Bofors matter (in the 80s), but nothing came out of that probe. Those who had demanded a probe at that time are now in power, but they are keeping mum on Rafale deal. The country is looted in this deal.”

“The Centre should explain to Parliament the escalation of the price of Rafale aircraft from Rs 650 crore to Rs 1,600 crore. This episode need to be probed and the documents of the deal should be placed before all parties,” he said in another tweet.